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Amos Yee deported from the US, set to face charges under the Enlistment Act in Singapore

Child sex offender Amos Yee was deported from the United States on March 19, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency confirmed to The Straits Times.According to a State Courts portal, Yee is expected to be charged in Singapore on March 20 wit
Singapore

Amos Yee deported from the US, set to face charges under the Enlistment Act in Singapore

Child sex offender Amos Yee was deported from the United States on March 19, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency confirmed to The Straits Times.According to a State Courts portal, Yee is expected to be charged in Singapore on March 20 with offences under the Enlistment Act.The 27-year-old was last housed at the Broadview Service Staging Area in Illinois on March 18, with the facility located a 17-minute drive from Chicago O’Hare International Airport.As at March 19, his record was expunged from the ICE website, and a representative confirmed to ST by phone on the morning of March 20 that Yee “was removed from the US” on March 19, Singapore time.He has been in ICE’s custody since November 2025, barely a week after he was released from an American prison.According to a post on a blog maintained by his supporters, Yee signed his deportation papers on Feb 12, with his deportation likely to take place any time in the subsequent nine months.In recent days, he had been transferred multiple times to various ICE facilities.

Strait of Hormuz blockade may have knock-on effect that can spiral into downturn: PM Wong

Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing Iran war may have knock-on effects that can lead to an economic downturn or recession, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong told Singapore media during this three-day visit to Japan on Wednesday (March 18).«We a
Singapore

Strait of Hormuz blockade may have knock-on effect that can spiral into downturn: PM Wong

Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing Iran war may have knock-on effects that can lead to an economic downturn or recession, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong told Singapore media during this three-day visit to Japan on Wednesday (March 18).«We are monitoring the situation closely, because it is dynamic,» he said.He added: «We do not know when it will stop. But quite aside from the military operation, the key question is whether or not the Strait of Hormuz will continue to be blocked, and for how long.»The US had originally stated that its military operation would be over in a matter of weeks.Operation Epic Fury is now in its third week, PM Wong pointed out, as the US, Israel and Iran continue to battle, causing shipping to stall in the strait.About 20 per cent of the world's oil pass through the Strait of Hormuz.Should the Strait continue to be blocked — even if the military operation ceases — there can be «severe consequences» for the global economy, he said.While the focus has been on resources like oil and gas, food supplies and helium could also be affected.

Woman who posed as 'police investigation officer' in expletive-laden online exchange arrested for impersonation

A 41-year-old woman was arrested on Thursday (March 19) for allegedly impersonating police officers and using abusive words towards a public servant.Police said in a statement issued the same evening that they were alerted to an anonymous Facebook post — fe
Singapore

Woman who posed as 'police investigation officer' in expletive-laden online exchange arrested for impersonation

A 41-year-old woman was arrested on Thursday (March 19) for allegedly impersonating police officers and using abusive words towards a public servant.Police said in a statement issued the same evening that they were alerted to an anonymous Facebook post — featuring an expletive-laden conversation — between a person claiming to be a police officer and an unknown user on Tuesday.AsiaOne reviewed the screenshots, which were published in a Facebook group, and noted that the F-word was used more than 15 times. In at least two messages, the imposter also threatened to rape the unknown user. 

Sinopec, SPC hike diesel prices to mark 4th consecutive day of adjustments

Pump prices in Singapore saw a fourth consecutive day of adjustments on Thursday (March 19) as Sinopec, followed by SPC, raised its respective posted price for diesel by 7 cents.This mirrored the moves of Shell, Esso and Caltex, which also raised diesel price
Singapore

Sinopec, SPC hike diesel prices to mark 4th consecutive day of adjustments

Pump prices in Singapore saw a fourth consecutive day of adjustments on Thursday (March 19) as Sinopec, followed by SPC, raised its respective posted price for diesel by 7 cents.This mirrored the moves of Shell, Esso and Caltex, which also raised diesel prices by 7 cents each on Wednesday.But all five companies held prices for petrol  steady — for a second consecutive day.Following the latest round of adjustments, the price for diesel now ranges from $3.56 at SPC, to $3.63 at Caltex, Esso and Shell. The posted price for diesel at Sinopec holds the middle ground at $3.62.Cynergy raised pump prices on WednesdayUnion Gas Holdings-owned Cynergy raised prices for its 95- and 98-octane petrol by 5 cents a litre on Wednesday, while holding its posted price for diesel unchanged.

Singapore, Japan 'strategically aligned' for a stronger partnership: PM Wong

TOKYO – Singapore and Japan are strategically aligned, with similar views on the importance of free and open trade, as well as international cooperation. Both also have a shared interest in new areas of growth, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on March 18.
Singapore

Singapore, Japan 'strategically aligned' for a stronger partnership: PM Wong

TOKYO – Singapore and Japan are strategically aligned, with similar views on the importance of free and open trade, as well as international cooperation. Both also have a shared interest in new areas of growth, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on March 18.While the Republic remembers its history and the Japanese Occupation, this does not mean Singapore cannot move forward to forge a mutually beneficial relationship with Japan as it has done over the decades, he said as he concluded the main section of his three-day official visit to Tokyo.Both countries have a longstanding relationship and believe in free and open trade, as well as in upholding the rules-based international order. Both sides are also pushing forward in similar sectors of artificial intelligence, quantum and space technologies, and cybersecurity, said PM Wong.These are new opportunities that will benefit both countries, including in research, investments and job creation, he added.

2 drivers taken to hospital after head-on collision involving van and car in Lim Chu Kang

Two drivers were taken to hospital after a car and van collided head-on in Lim Chu Kang on Wednesday (March 18). The 61-year-old van driver was trapped in his seat and had to be extricated by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) officers using hydraulic
Singapore

2 drivers taken to hospital after head-on collision involving van and car in Lim Chu Kang

Two drivers were taken to hospital after a car and van collided head-on in Lim Chu Kang on Wednesday (March 18). The 61-year-old van driver was trapped in his seat and had to be extricated by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) officers using hydraulic rescue equipment. A video of the aftermath of the accident along Neo Tiew Road by TikTok user Sooraj Soo showed the van bumper had partially fallen off. The police and SCDF told AsiaOne they were alerted to the accident near the junction of Neo Tiew Road and Neo Tiew Lane 3 at about 11.50am on Wednesday. The van driver and the 45-year-old female car driver were both conscious when taken to hospital. SCDF said it conveyed one person to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and another person to Woodlands Hospital.The police said the van driver is assisting with investigations.[[nid:731857]]lim.kewei@asiaone.com

Hari Raya Puasa to fall on March 21: Mufti

Muslims in Singapore will celebrate Hari Raya Puasa on Saturday (March 21), announced Mufti Nazirudin Mohd Nasir on Thursday.As the crescent moon for the month of Syawal was positioned too low above Singapore's horizon at sunset, Friday will mark the completi
Singapore

Hari Raya Puasa to fall on March 21: Mufti

Muslims in Singapore will celebrate Hari Raya Puasa on Saturday (March 21), announced Mufti Nazirudin Mohd Nasir on Thursday.As the crescent moon for the month of Syawal was positioned too low above Singapore's horizon at sunset, Friday will mark the completion of the month of Ramadan, the mufti said in a media statement.He also announced that the first day of Syawal or Hari Raya Aidilfitri for the year 1447H falls on March 21 (Saturday).Singapore, along with Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia, use the imkanur rukyah astronomy calculation method, which was reviewed in 2021 and premised on more than 700 data points of crescent moon sightings from around the world.Mufti Nazirudin also urged Muslims in Singapore to multiply their good deeds and prayers in the remaining days of Ramadan.«I also take this opportunity to wish all Muslims in  Singapore: 'Selemat Hari Raya Aidilfitri'. May we welcome the arrival of the month of Syawal with full gratitude and further strengthen the bonds of kinship and compassion for one another,» he said.[[nid:731494]]editor@asiaone.com

Pet owner opens dog's health powder tub, allegedly finds insect infestation inside: 'A lot of flies flew out'

Pet owner Jocelyn Ang opened a tub of Rose-Hip Vital Canine powder to feed her dog when she saw flies swarming out of it, with other insects inside it.She posted her experience on Facebook group Singapore Dogs Community on Monday (March 16).«I just open
Singapore

Pet owner opens dog's health powder tub, allegedly finds insect infestation inside: 'A lot of flies flew out'

Pet owner Jocelyn Ang opened a tub of Rose-Hip Vital Canine powder to feed her dog when she saw flies swarming out of it, with other insects inside it.She posted her experience on Facebook group Singapore Dogs Community on Monday (March 16).«I just opened a brand-new sealed tub today, and to my horror, a lot of flies flew out, and the powder inside seems infested with many small insects,» she wrote in her post, also saying that it was «quite shocking».In a video uploaded with her post, Ang can be seen gingerly opening the tub while holding it outside the window of her unit.Once it opens, a fly immediately bolts out into the air and disappears, while another can be seen at the rim of the tub.The camera then pans over the contents of the tub, showing white, grain-like objects within it and a web-like substance along the tub's rim, which is also dotted with black spots.According to videos on Rose-Hip Vital's YouTube channel, the contents of the tub should be a consistent powder similar to turmeric and is used to improve a dog's health and strengthen joints among other health benefits.

Over 1,800 reports filed as DBS, POSB online services down for some users

Some DBS and POSB users were not able to use the banks’ digital services on Thursday (March 19) afternoon.In a Facebook post, DBS said that while they are working to fully recover services, customers can continue making payment through bank cards and withdr
Singapore

Over 1,800 reports filed as DBS, POSB online services down for some users

Some DBS and POSB users were not able to use the banks’ digital services on Thursday (March 19) afternoon.In a Facebook post, DBS said that while they are working to fully recover services, customers can continue making payment through bank cards and withdraw cash at ATMs and POSB cash-points.«Please be assured that your monies and deposits remain safe,» said DBS. «We are sorry for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding.»Downdetector, a site that tracks service outages by collating status reports from a number of sources, saw over 1,800 reports as of 12.30pm.AsiaOne has reached out to DBS for more information.editor@asiaone.comchingshijie@asiaone.com

FairPrice offers discount on house-brand essentials for 12 weeks

Shoppers will be able to purchase FairPrice's Own Brands products at discounted prices for the next 12 weeks.FairPrice Group announced on Thursday (March 19) that it will be bringing its Best Sellers for Less campaign back for the second year between March 1
Singapore

FairPrice offers discount on house-brand essentials for 12 weeks

Shoppers will be able to purchase FairPrice's Own Brands products at discounted prices for the next 12 weeks.FairPrice Group announced on Thursday (March 19) that it will be bringing its Best Sellers for Less campaign back for the second year between March 19 to June 10.During the 12-week period, customers will be able to get up to 36 per cent off FairPrice's Own Brands products, including rice, facial tissues, and frozen processed food.The initiative is meant to help Singaporeans «stretch their dollar further against the current backdrop of economic uncertainty and rising costs» and is part of FairPrice Group's «wider commitment to keep daily essentials affordable and accessible».Own Brands comprises over 3,500 products that are typically priced 10 to 15 per cent cheaper than branded alternatives.«We want to repay Singaporeans for the trust that they place in our Own Brands every day, and assure them that we are committed to keeping quality staples affordable, especially in times of uncertainty,» said Vipul Chawla, Group CEO of FairPrice Group.[[nid:730941]]

1 dead, 1 taken to hospital after fire breaks out at Choa Chu Kang HDB flat; 70 residents evacuated

An early morning fire at a Choa Chu Kang HDB flat left one person dead and another injured on Thursday (March 19). The blaze broke out in the bedroom of a 14th floor unit at Block 763 Choa Chu Kang North 5 at about 3am. The Singapore Civil Defence F
Singapore

1 dead, 1 taken to hospital after fire breaks out at Choa Chu Kang HDB flat; 70 residents evacuated

An early morning fire at a Choa Chu Kang HDB flat left one person dead and another injured on Thursday (March 19). The blaze broke out in the bedroom of a 14th floor unit at Block 763 Choa Chu Kang North 5 at about 3am. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said in a Facebook post that firefighters found the deceased in the unit. The victim was pronounced dead on the spot by a paramedic. Another resident from the unit who fled the fire was sent to the Singapore General Hospital for smoke inhalation.  Two other residents from the block were also assessed for smoke inhalation but they did not want to be taken to hospital. 

Singapore, Japan upgrade ties to strategic partnership

TOKYO - Singapore and Japan have upgraded their bilateral ties, with deeper co-operation planned in a wide range of areas from artificial intelligence to the green transition.Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced o
Singapore

Singapore, Japan upgrade ties to strategic partnership

TOKYO - Singapore and Japan have upgraded their bilateral ties, with deeper co-operation planned in a wide range of areas from artificial intelligence to the green transition.Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced on March 18 that the two countries have elevated their ties to a strategic partnership, in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.The strategic partnership will deepen the foundations of the substantive and multifaceted relationship between both countries, and expand co-operation in five forward-looking areas, said a joint statement issued after both leaders and their delegations met at the Prime Minister's Office in Tokyo.These areas are: promoting free trade and economic co-operation; digitalisation and technology; security and defence; green transition and energy co-operation; and partnership and exchanges.Among the new agreements was the establishment of an information and communications technology policy dialogue between Singapore's Ministry of Digital Development and Information and its Japanese counterpart.

'Long storm of global political instability': President Tharman approves Budget 2026 amid 'bracing times'

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on Wednesday (March 18) warned of «bracing times» beyond global economic and financial strains, which he said has extended into a «long storm» of global political instability.He made these comments in
Singapore

'Long storm of global political instability': President Tharman approves Budget 2026 amid 'bracing times'

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on Wednesday (March 18) warned of «bracing times» beyond global economic and financial strains, which he said has extended into a «long storm» of global political instability.He made these comments in a Facebook post as he approved the Government's record $154.7 billion spending plan for Budget 2026.Pointing to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, now in its third week, the President cautioned that a protracted war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz will increase the risk of a major economic downturn and higher inflation.He explained that fuel prices will continue to climb if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. This, he said, will go beyond the oil and gas markets, to affect other sectors such as fertiliser.A reduction in fertiliser supply, in turn, will impact food supply and prices, and supplies of other critical commodities such as aluminium and helium — which the world depends on.

Caltex, Esso join Shell to raise diesel prices by 7 cents each on 3rd consecutive day of hikes

In what feels like a deja vu of pump prices adjustments on Monday, three fuel companies — Shell, followed by Esso, then Caltex — again raised their posted prices in sequence on Wednesday (March 18).On March 16 (Monday), AsiaOne reported that Shell kicked
Singapore

Caltex, Esso join Shell to raise diesel prices by 7 cents each on 3rd consecutive day of hikes

In what feels like a deja vu of pump prices adjustments on Monday, three fuel companies — Shell, followed by Esso, then Caltex — again raised their posted prices in sequence on Wednesday (March 18).On March 16 (Monday), AsiaOne reported that Shell kicked off the new week with a fresh round of price adjustments, increasing its posted prices for 95-, 98-octane, V-Power, and diesel — by 7 cents each. This was followed by Esso, which mirrored Shell's price adjustments by increasing its 92-, 95- and 98-octane petrol, and diesel, by 7 cents each. Caltex subsequently raised its posted prices for 92-and 95-octane, and premium petrol by 2 cents each, while increasing its diesel price by 7 cents.

3 people suffer high blood pressure, insomnia after consuming banned health products

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) on Wednesday (March 18) warned members of the public against purchasing or consuming four health products as three people suffered serious side effects, including high blood pressure and insomnia after consuming them.The fo
Singapore

3 people suffer high blood pressure, insomnia after consuming banned health products

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) on Wednesday (March 18) warned members of the public against purchasing or consuming four health products as three people suffered serious side effects, including high blood pressure and insomnia after consuming them.The four products — Ubat Angin Tulang, Tianma Duzhong Shujing Wan, IM SO am and IM TOX pm — were found to contain potent ingredients such as steroids, and a banned substance — sibutramine. These products were found to have been sold on e-commerce platforms Shopee, Lazada and Carousell, a peddler in Jurong, and from Malaysia.«HSA has worked with the online platforms to remove the listings, and investigations on the sellers are ongoing,» the statement said.Serious side effectsUbat Angin Tulang and Tianma Duzhong Shujing Wan are touted as herbal products for those with knee pain, and the products indicated that only herbal ingredients such as ginseng are included. 

Hundreds of Singtel customers report issues with its services on March 18

Some 500 Singtel users are reportedly facing issues with the telco on Wednesday (March 18) evening.This follows disruptions encountered by thousands of users on March 16 and March 17. [[nid:731578]]Downdetector, a real-time crowdsourced platform that mon
Singapore

Hundreds of Singtel customers report issues with its services on March 18

Some 500 Singtel users are reportedly facing issues with the telco on Wednesday (March 18) evening.This follows disruptions encountered by thousands of users on March 16 and March 17. [[nid:731578]]Downdetector, a real-time crowdsourced platform that monitors the status of over 12,000 services across banking, internet services and social media providers, indicated that 500 users have reported issues with Singtel at 6.22pm.Among the top three issues reported, about 48 per cent of users said it was related to mobile internet services, while another 24 per cent said it was related to mobile signal.Social media user Zul Samian, in a comment on a marketing post published by Singtel, wrote: «Disruption again on March 18! (This is) the third consecutive day! Restarting the mobile phone doesn't solve anything!»The user also called for Singtel to investigate the incidents thoroughly. 

Gold-buying trend takes hold in Singapore

SINGAPORE - Gold retailers in Singapore are boosting inventories to cater to higher demand for the precious metal amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.Bullion dealers, jewellers and pawnshops told The Straits Times that buying of the precious metal has
Singapore

Gold-buying trend takes hold in Singapore

SINGAPORE - Gold retailers in Singapore are boosting inventories to cater to higher demand for the precious metal amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.Bullion dealers, jewellers and pawnshops told The Straits Times that buying of the precious metal has surged in recent times amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and expectations of interest rate cuts.Items like gold bars, coins and jewellery are among the items being snapped up by local buyers in recent weeks, with some also eyeing silver, they said. Also in the mix are people who want to cash in or trade their older gold items.Besides middle-aged customers, some have also observed a younger crowd wading into the gold-buying trend.Mr David Mitchell, founder and managing director of bullion dealer Indigo Precious Metals, said his store has seen demand rise over 100 per cent so far in 2026, compared with the same period in 2025. The company runs a retail outlet in Bukit Pasoh Road.“We have seen more buyers than sellers over the past year, but we also are beginning to see more sellers entering the market, which is typical after strong price moves,” he said.

'Disheartening': Bukit Batok resident files police report after home garden gets destroyed

A man was left shocked after returning to his Bukit Batok home to find his plants in disarray, with pots toppled and soil scattered across the corridor.Speaking to AsiaOne on Wednesday (March 18), the man, who wished to be known only as Luo, said the inciden
Singapore

'Disheartening': Bukit Batok resident files police report after home garden gets destroyed

A man was left shocked after returning to his Bukit Batok home to find his plants in disarray, with pots toppled and soil scattered across the corridor.Speaking to AsiaOne on Wednesday (March 18), the man, who wished to be known only as Luo, said the incident happened when he had gone out on Saturday (March 14). «It was around 2pm when I got home that I noticed my plants had toppled. At first, I thought it was the wind, but I soon realised the plants had been ripped out of their pots, with soil scattered all over the corridor,» said the 42-year-old retail investor.Luo added that he also noticed deep scratches and dents on his front door, which he believes were caused by objects such as rocks or tiles being thrown at it. He has since filed a police report and estimates that repairing the door and buying new plants will cost around $1,500.Responding to queries from AsiaOne, the police confirmed that a report was lodged and investigations are ongoing. 

Widow of retired judge sues grandson in dispute related to late husband's will

SINGAPORE – Lawyer Arfat Selvam, the widow of retired judge G.P. Selvam, has sued her grandson for breach of confidence and defamation in a dispute related to her late husband’s will. Mrs Selvam, a former president of the Law Society of Singapore, and he
Singapore

Widow of retired judge sues grandson in dispute related to late husband's will

SINGAPORE – Lawyer Arfat Selvam, the widow of retired judge G.P. Selvam, has sued her grandson for breach of confidence and defamation in a dispute related to her late husband’s will. Mrs Selvam, a former president of the Law Society of Singapore, and her two daughters are the executors and trustees of Mr Selvam’s will.Some details of the dispute emerged in written grounds of decision issued on March 16 by Senior Judge Tan Siong Thye.Justice Tan was giving written reasons to explain why he upheld certain orders that Mrs Selvam and her daughters had sought while the case is going through the court process.The orders include an injunction to restrain Mrs Selvam’s grandson, Mr Sharad Selvam Ramachandra, from disclosing confidential material, and a search order for confidential material.The judge had in 2025 granted the orders to safeguard the confidential material and to prevent Mr Ramachandra from destroying relevant evidence of how he obtained the material. In his bid to set aside the orders, Mr Ramachandra argued for an “iniquity exception”, where evidence of unlawful actions are not protected by the law of confidence.

Over 90% of HDB homes to be within 5-minute walk of a beverage container return machine from April

Some 1,070 Return Right machines will be deployed when the beverage container return scheme (BCRS) commences on April 1, with most Singaporeans having no difficulty finding one. More than 90 per cent of Housing and Development Board (HDB) households wil
Singapore

Over 90% of HDB homes to be within 5-minute walk of a beverage container return machine from April

Some 1,070 Return Right machines will be deployed when the beverage container return scheme (BCRS) commences on April 1, with most Singaporeans having no difficulty finding one. More than 90 per cent of Housing and Development Board (HDB) households will have a Right Return machine within a five-minute walk from home. This initial deployment of machines will cover more than 430 supermarkets and retail outlets, over 610 town council-managed areas in HDB heartlands, and 17 high footfall hawker centres across Singapore. In the coming months, a further 160 locations - such as institutes of higher learning and 36 industrial areas with high football - will also have such machines. The deployment will eventually be extended to large migrant worker dormitories and all recreation centres. 

MAS issues prohibition orders against 2 ex-bankers involved in $3b money laundering case

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) on Tuesday (March 17) issued prohibition orders against two former bankers who were convicted for their involvement in the $3 billion money laundering case in 2023.Former Citibank relationship manager Wang Qiming, 27
Singapore

MAS issues prohibition orders against 2 ex-bankers involved in $3b money laundering case

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) on Tuesday (March 17) issued prohibition orders against two former bankers who were convicted for their involvement in the $3 billion money laundering case in 2023.Former Citibank relationship manager Wang Qiming, 27, was given a 16-year prohibition order, while Liu Kai, 37, who was previously a relationship manager at Julius Baer, was given a prohibition order of seven years.Under the prohibition orders, Wang and Liu are not allowed to carry out any MAS-regulated or authorised activity of business.They are also barred from becoming, or increasing their interested as a substantial shareholder, of any financial institution that is a corporation.On Oct 23, 2025, Wang was convicted of four charges for forgery, money laundering and obstructing the course of justice. He was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment. Six other charges were taken into consideration during sentencing.A day later, Liu was convicted of one charge of using a forged tax document to defraud Bank Julius Baer. He was sentenced to four months’ imprisonment.

Shell leads pump price adjustment on 3rd consecutive day of fuel price hikes

Pump prices in Singapore rose for a third consecutive day this week as Shell again started a new round of price adjustments on Wednesday (March 18).In a price board update published at 1pm, Shell announced that it has raised its posted price for diesel by 7 c
Singapore

Shell leads pump price adjustment on 3rd consecutive day of fuel price hikes

Pump prices in Singapore rose for a third consecutive day this week as Shell again started a new round of price adjustments on Wednesday (March 18).In a price board update published at 1pm, Shell announced that it has raised its posted price for diesel by 7 cents — two days after it raised its posted prices for 95- and 98-octane, V-Power as well as diesel — also by 7 cents each. But Shell has held prices steady for its 95- and 98-octane petrol, and the premium V-Power in this latest round of price adjustments.Sinopec and SPC on Tuesday raised their respective pump prices, following price adjustments by a trio of fuel companies — Shell, Esso and Caltex — on Monday.

Man, 63, steals Arowana fish valued at $1,400 from Clementi shop, arrested within 13 hours

A 63-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday (March 17) for allegedly breaking into a retail outlet and stealing an Arowana fish valued at $1,400.But the fish was dead by the time it was recovered.The incident happened at about 2.30am at an outlet along Clement
Singapore

Man, 63, steals Arowana fish valued at $1,400 from Clementi shop, arrested within 13 hours

A 63-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday (March 17) for allegedly breaking into a retail outlet and stealing an Arowana fish valued at $1,400.But the fish was dead by the time it was recovered.The incident happened at about 2.30am at an outlet along Clementi Avenue 2. Police said preliminary investigations revealed that a person had allegedly damaged the rear gate of the shop and gained unlawful entry into the premises. An Arowana fish, valued at $1,400, was reported missing.Officers from Clementi Police Division conducted ground enquiries and used images from police cameras to establish the identity of the man, who arrested within 13 hours of the report. He will be charged in court on Wednesday with the offence of housebreaking in order to commit theft.If found guilty of the said offence, the man may be jailed for up to 10 years and fined.[[nid:731672]]editor@asiaone.com 

Children returned to Han Hui Hui's care but with conditions: Police, MSF

Activist Han Hui Hui has been reunited with her three children, aged three, five and six, on Monday (March 16) following a family conference to put in place additional safeguards, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and the police said on Tues
Singapore

Children returned to Han Hui Hui's care but with conditions: Police, MSF

Activist Han Hui Hui has been reunited with her three children, aged three, five and six, on Monday (March 16) following a family conference to put in place additional safeguards, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and the police said on Tuesday (March 17).These include appointing new safe adults from within the extended family to check-in on the children through physical visits and video calls.The 33-year-old was also issued a correction direction under the Protection from Online Falseholds and Manipulation Act (Pofma) on Tuesday.It was issued to protect public trust and ensure that accurate facts are put up. Han will also be required to publish a correction notice on her social media accounts, The children were taken away from her on Feb 15, after she had called the police regarding an alleged altercation between the children and their grandmother. They were removed after it was assessed that there were risks to their safety, and it was done in line with the Children and Young Persons Act, the authorities said.

Singaporean man deported from Thailand arrested for vice-related activities

A 40-year-old Singaporean man was arrested after he was deported from Thailand for his alleged involvement in operating vice syndicates.In a statement released on Tuesday (March 17), the police said that through joint investigations with the Royal Thai Police
Singapore

Singaporean man deported from Thailand arrested for vice-related activities

A 40-year-old Singaporean man was arrested after he was deported from Thailand for his alleged involvement in operating vice syndicates.In a statement released on Tuesday (March 17), the police said that through joint investigations with the Royal Thai Police, the man was located in Chonburi province and arrested in Prachuap Khiri Khan province on Feb 24.He was subsequently deported to Singapore and arrested upon arrival on Tuesday. According to the Criminal Investigation Department, he was one of 17 individuals arrested on Oct 21, 2024, during island-wide operations targeting vice and illegal drug activities.He had previously been charged under the Women's Charter 1961 and released on bail, with his passport impounded. However, he failed to attend a court mention on Dec 12, 2024, and an arrest warrant was issued, but investigations revealed that he had left Singapore illegally.

'One-sided account': Singapore envoy rebuts claims about political system made on Australia radio programme

An Australian radio programme which discussed Singapore politics contained «several baseless claims» of the Republic's political system, said Singapore's High Commissioner to Australia Anil Kumar Nayar on Tuesday (March 17).In a written article o
Singapore

'One-sided account': Singapore envoy rebuts claims about political system made on Australia radio programme

An Australian radio programme which discussed Singapore politics contained «several baseless claims» of the Republic's political system, said Singapore's High Commissioner to Australia Anil Kumar Nayar on Tuesday (March 17).In a written article on the website of the Singapore High Commission in Canberra, he said that the March 7 episode of the Rear Vision programme titled 'Singapore and the long shadow of Lee Kuan Yew' had told a «one-sided account».Rear Vision was aired on national broadcaster ABC Radio, and it featured four guests: Dr Stephan Ortmann, Dr Michael Barr, Dr Gillian Koh and Joshua Kurlantzick.Dr Ortmann is Assistant Professor of Politics and Public Administration, Hong Kong Metropolitan University; Dr Barr, Associate Professor of International relations, Flinders University; Dr Koh, senior research fellow Gillian Koh of NUS' Institute of Policy Studies, and Kurlantzick, a Senior Fellow for SE Asia and South Asia, Council on Foreign Relations.Nayar said presenter Antony Funnell and several commentators had made remarks about Singapore, including calling her an «autocracy», and «verging now on a flawed democracy».

Power bank catches fire on train at Admiralty station, commuter taken to hospital

A woman was taken to hospital after a portable power bank ignited on a MRT train and sent passengers scurrying out of the cabin.SMRT Trains president Lam Sheau Kai told AsiaOne the emergency communication button of a train stopped at Admiralty station was act
Singapore

Power bank catches fire on train at Admiralty station, commuter taken to hospital

A woman was taken to hospital after a portable power bank ignited on a MRT train and sent passengers scurrying out of the cabin.SMRT Trains president Lam Sheau Kai told AsiaOne the emergency communication button of a train stopped at Admiralty station was activated at about 3pm on Monday (March 16).Station staff found that a power bank had caught fire, which the female commuter had quickly put out.She was given first aid and taken to Woodlands Hospital. No other injuries were reported, said Lam.Facebook user Vernon Lim shared a photo showing the soot-covered components of a power bank, scattered beneath a row of seats.«Never buy cheap power bank,» he wrote in his post. «Hope the girl whose power bank exploded in front of her is ok.»Lim told the Straits Times that he had been in another train carriage when he heard an explosion and a scream. He went to check out the incident and saw smoke rising from the floor.SMRT's Lam said that all commuters on board were asked to disembark and board the next train. The affected train was subsequently moved to the depot for further checks.

Explosion hits worker battling blaze at Aljunied industrial building, 1 injured

One person was taken to hospital after a fire broke out at the open area of an industrial building in Aljunied on Tuesday (March 17) afternoon.The incident happened at about 12.40pm at 627 Aljunied Road. Mogan Kannish, 60, a chief security officer at an
Singapore

Explosion hits worker battling blaze at Aljunied industrial building, 1 injured

One person was taken to hospital after a fire broke out at the open area of an industrial building in Aljunied on Tuesday (March 17) afternoon.The incident happened at about 12.40pm at 627 Aljunied Road. Mogan Kannish, 60, a chief security officer at an adjacent building, told AsiaOne that he heard at least two explosions. He said he triggered the fire alarm as he was concerned that the fire could spread and affect the people working there. Workers who evacuated from the affected building awaiting instructions. PHOTO: AsiaOne/Rauf Khan Leon Tan, 33, who works in an adjacent building, recalled his colleague telling him that there was smoke near the windows.«It (fire) looked quite big. We also heard some explosions...It sounded like a heavy object dropped down, so it was quite loud,» Tan said.

'Small number' of Singtel customers facing connectivity issues unrelated to March 16 disruption

Some Singtel customers reported facing connectivity issues on Tuesday (March 17), after an eight-hour-long disruption the previous day was resolved.In a Facebook post at 11.30am, the telco said that it is aware of the «small number» of customers f
Singapore

'Small number' of Singtel customers facing connectivity issues unrelated to March 16 disruption

Some Singtel customers reported facing connectivity issues on Tuesday (March 17), after an eight-hour-long disruption the previous day was resolved.In a Facebook post at 11.30am, the telco said that it is aware of the «small number» of customers facing difficulties and that it is unrelated to the service disruption on March 16.«Our engineers are working urgently on resolving the matter as quickly as possible,» said Singtel, apologising for the inconvenience caused. Many Singtel customers have voiced their concerns in the comments section on Facebook, with claims of intermittent connectivity and unresolved issues since Monday.The disruption on Monday started before 11am and affected thousands of customers across the island, with 4G and 5G services being fully restored at 8.55pm.While Singtel did not disclose the reason for the service outage, it said that there was «no evidence» to suggest it was a cyber-related event.[[nid:731578]]dana.leong@asiaone.com 

Man, 36, accused of leaving pork at doorstep of Tampines HDB flat arrested

A 36-year-old man who allegedly pasted a handwritten note with offensive remarks about Islam outside a HDB flat in Tampines on Sunday (March 15) and left a piece of meat believed to be pork at the doorstep has been arrested by the police.In a statement on Tue
Singapore

Man, 36, accused of leaving pork at doorstep of Tampines HDB flat arrested

A 36-year-old man who allegedly pasted a handwritten note with offensive remarks about Islam outside a HDB flat in Tampines on Sunday (March 15) and left a piece of meat believed to be pork at the doorstep has been arrested by the police.In a statement on Tuesday, the police said they were alerted to the incident along Tampines Street 82 at about 3.40pm on Sunday.With the aid of closed-circuit television cameras, officers managed to track the man within four hours and arrested him.He will be charged in court on Tuesday with insulting the religion and/or wounding the religious feelings of another person under the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act.The offence carries a maximum sentence of five years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. «Any person who makes remarks or acts in a manner which can cause ill-will and hostility between different races or religious groups in Singapore will be dealt with firmly,» said the police. [[nid:725730]]xingying.koh@asiaone.com

Driver rear-ends motorcyclist in Tampines and offers him a hug, but allegedly blames him when police get involved

Is it really kindness if you can offer it, and subsequently take it back? That's what a driver allegedly did after rear-ending a motorcyclist along Tampines Avenue 2 on Sunday (March 15), according to a video uploaded to Facebook group SG Road Vigilante.
Singapore

Driver rear-ends motorcyclist in Tampines and offers him a hug, but allegedly blames him when police get involved

Is it really kindness if you can offer it, and subsequently take it back? That's what a driver allegedly did after rear-ending a motorcyclist along Tampines Avenue 2 on Sunday (March 15), according to a video uploaded to Facebook group SG Road Vigilante. In the video, which was uploaded on Monday and has since garnered over 86,000 views, the driver of a sedan accelerates as the traffic lights turn green.However, a motorcyclist in front of him fails to ride off in time, and the sedan collides with the motorcyclist, sending him tumbling onto the road. The sedan then stops beside the fallen motorcyclist. The driver emerges from the vehicle and embraces the motorcyclist as he gets to his feet and also pats his back. Other passers-by approach to check on the motorcyclist and help him move his bike to the pedestrian path on the left.The motorcyclist and driver can be seen conversing on the pavement, before the video cuts to photos of the driver helping the motorcyclist and an ambulance at the scene.

Singapore Courts warns against fake 'court orders' asking for transfer of money

Come across a «court order» instructing you to transfer money to a bank account to avoid legal action? Such instructions are fraudulent and should not be followed, cautioned the Singapore Courts on Monday (March 16). In a Facebook post,
Singapore

Singapore Courts warns against fake 'court orders' asking for transfer of money

Come across a «court order» instructing you to transfer money to a bank account to avoid legal action? Such instructions are fraudulent and should not be followed, cautioned the Singapore Courts on Monday (March 16). In a Facebook post, the Singapore Courts said it has been alerted to a scam variant involving bogus court orders. It added that it does not issue orders via WhatsApp or Telegram, and that it does not ask for bank login credentials or fund transfers from members of the public via phone or email. Members of the public can verify court orders via the Authentic Court Orders (ACO) portal at www.courtorders.gov.sg.Any suspicious notices purporting to be from the courts should also be reported to the ScamShield hotline at 1799.According to the annual scam statistics released by the police in February, the number of government official impersonation scams saw an increase of more than double in 2025 (3,363 cases) compared with 2024 (1,504 cases). 

Possible road signs, markings for ERP 2.0 being tested by LTA along Bayshore Drive

New road signs and markings are now visible along Bayshore Drive as the Land Transport Authority (LTA) conducts tests in the area.In photos accompanying LTA's Facebook post on Monday (March 16), a yellow sign beside the road notifies motorists that testing i
Singapore

Possible road signs, markings for ERP 2.0 being tested by LTA along Bayshore Drive

New road signs and markings are now visible along Bayshore Drive as the Land Transport Authority (LTA) conducts tests in the area.In photos accompanying LTA's Facebook post on Monday (March 16), a yellow sign beside the road notifies motorists that testing is in progress in the area, while a large letter «E» can be seen within a blue circle on the ground. A section of the road has also been painted blue just after a sign that warns motorists of an «ERP Charge Zone». These tests are part of LTA's transition to the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) 2.0's satellite technology, and will gauge how well specific signs and markings alert drivers of ERP charging locations in an environment without physical gantries.Assuring that drivers won't be charged if they happen to go through the test site, LTA said the ERP 2.0 alerts will be supported by on-board unit (OBU) notifications.The markings in place along Bayshore Drive will be there for approximately a month as selected participants provide feedback.

Driver taken to hospital after collision with SBS Transit bus along Bras Basah Road

A 33-year-old driver was taken to hospital after colliding with a bus in Bras Basah on Monday (March 16). Photos of the accident were shared on the (buses[IN]gapore!) Facebook group.  In the photos, a pink Honda is seen on the pavement, having swipe
Singapore

Driver taken to hospital after collision with SBS Transit bus along Bras Basah Road

A 33-year-old driver was taken to hospital after colliding with a bus in Bras Basah on Monday (March 16). Photos of the accident were shared on the (buses[IN]gapore!) Facebook group.  In the photos, a pink Honda is seen on the pavement, having swiped against a SBS Transit bus. The pink car crashed into a pillar and parts of its bonnet can be seen on the ground, while dents and scratches can be seen on the left side of the bus.  In response to AsiaOne's queries, the police said they were alerted to the accident at 9 Bras Basah Road at around 2.20pm. 

Man spies on young neighbour for months, shines laser into her room and shouts: 'I want to see you naked'

A 68-year-old man who spied on his 23-year-old neighbour for months and shone a laser pointer into her bedroom was jailed after admitting to multiple offences including voyeurism, molestation and theft.Rosrankani Abdul Latif faced eight charges including mole
Singapore

Man spies on young neighbour for months, shines laser into her room and shouts: 'I want to see you naked'

A 68-year-old man who spied on his 23-year-old neighbour for months and shone a laser pointer into her bedroom was jailed after admitting to multiple offences including voyeurism, molestation and theft.Rosrankani Abdul Latif faced eight charges including molestation, voyeurism and theft, Shin Min Daily News reported.On March 13, he pleaded guilty to four of the charges and was sentenced to eight months and one week in prison.Man spies on neighbour for monthsInvestigations revealed that in January 2025, Rosrankani noticed that a neighbour's bedroom window was left open and the curtains were not drawn, allowing him to see into her room from the window of his bathroom.From January to August, he frequently peeped into her room and even used a laser pointer to get her attention.According to CNA, Rosrankani would observe the woman undressing or lying on her bed. He said he looked into her bedroom because he was single and had «the urge to look at girls», and believed that the victim liked him.In May 2025, the victim was trying on new clothes in her room when Rosrankani watched her from his bathroom.